Well right now she's a really, really happy and honored girl :) I've worn a lot of hats over the years. Some longer than others. I've never been very conventional in my thinking or jobs for that matter. This one fits me for now and I love being part of this community. I'm married to a really great guy and we have a 17 year old son. Seems I have to always be creating something, for Poser or remodeling a room, something has to be going on. (told you he's a great guy;) I love birds and animals, they make me smile.

How did you get started in 3D Graphics?

I've always had a passion for art, in any shape or form. In high school, by my senior year they ran out of classes and my art teacher had to make one up for me. I wanted to be a commercial Graphic Artist but life lead me in other directions. Since I traveled alot, I was probably one of the very last to get internet (or even purchase a PC for that matter). I use to work in oils and acrylics, then I discovered Paint Shop Pro - I was pretty much hooked. One thing lead to another and before I knew it I was knee deep in PC graphics, following every tutorial I could find. But the first time I opened Poser 4, I twisted a few dials and closed it. It was a year before I tried again. I found Renderosity. Finally a direction! About 2 years or so after I started doing textures, I met Monika (SWAM) and we've been best friends ever since.

How much time is required for product development?

Most projects take about a month. Monika will tell you I'm a perfectionist. (Virgo - lol - what can I say).

How long have you been involved in digital art?

Just a little over 4 years. July of 2002 is when I uploaded my first product to Renderosity.

What are you currently working on?

Monika (SWAM) and I work a lot together. We are working on another Elfdance set called Charmed for Aiko 3.

Do you have any formal training?

No.... I really hate having to say "No" to that lol. I'm self taught and for the most part I work by trial and error.

What software do you use and why?

I use paint shop pro 8 for my textures. I'm so familiar with the program it's hard to move on. I still use Poser Pro but I'm getting Poser 7. I also use UV Mapper. I wish there were more hours in the day, there is so much I want to learn and do.

Where do you find inspiration for your products?

I am probably like most. I see and feel inspiration everywhere. You really can't help yourself. In a movie I watched, the character said "When you look at something you see what it is. When I look at something I see what it could be." That's me :)

Can you give a brief overview of your development cycle for a new project?

Every project starts with an idea. Most evolve and take on a life of their own. Monika (SWAM) and I kick around ideas till we have a solid starting point then she starts making the objects and sends them to me. I create the textures for them. Once all the objects are done, I go back and test render everything together and do some tweaking till I'm satisfied with the over all results. MATs are made, if poses are going to be included I usually start on those while the objects are being morphed. I do 50 to a 100 renders for a set, try to make them into an interesting composition for the promotional pictures.

Do you have any advice for aspiring Digital Content Developers?

I know that's an old cliché but "Persistence prevails", everyone has their own unique style, it's just a matter of time before you find yours. Always take pride in your work and most of all HAVE FUN!

How has this online community (Renderosity) enhanced your work, relationships, and learning?

I have met some of the most wonderful people here, I actually have more friends at Renderosity than I do in my own town. I dispatch my husband and work off what is called an Online Load Board. Most days I spend 10 to 12 hours monitoring it. During certain times of the year it closely resembles 'watching paint dry'. Without Renderosity, my friendships and working relationships, I couldn't be nearly as successful here or in our trucking business. Seeing the work of others really makes you want to do better and better and ..... well you get the idea.

Do you have any final words?

I want to thank our customers - you know without you there would be no rhyme to the reason. I want to thank my friends for all their help, support and most of all their friendship. When I left the military, what I missed the most was the feeling, the 'swell of pride' and belonging, there is nothing like it. I want to thank Renderosity for giving me a taste of that by honoring me with VOM. I hope everyone has a Very Merry Merry and a Happy Happy. Much success to you all.

By: romanceworks on 12/3/06
Hey Patti! Always knew you were a total talent, but you're gorgeous, too. Who knew? :o) I've sure enjoyed creating products with you and am very happy to see you receive this recognition. CC

By: mada on 12/7/06
Congratulations :D its a great finish for the year.

By: nirvy on 12/7/06
Congratulations! Long overdue and definitely well deserved.:)

By: tivao on 12/7/06
Extremely well deserved and long overdue! Congratulations!!

By: Lyne on 12/7/06
Congratulations! :) I just treated myself to both Elfdance sets...they are so like buying the "real thing" that I have seen on greeting cards over the years! :) You and your partner do outstanding work! :)

By: Vampir3Princess on 12/15/06
Congratulations Honey!!!! Your products are always so awesome and the love and dedication you put into them definetely shows and that's why you are one of my favorites!! :-) Love ya!!! ...you look very pretty on that pic btw ;-)

By: FranEll on 12/16/06
Nice work Goldtassel! I dig the fairy particularly. You should get Cinema 4D to work with. It's an excellent 3D modelling program.

By: Thorne on 12/17/06
Congratulations Patti! A well deserved recognition for one of the best merchants in the marketplace. Your artistry and attention to detail really shows in everything you do. Best wishes for a wonderful year!

By: Savant on 12/20/06
Very well deserved.I simply love your products, all the best to you.

By: shadowalkerus on 12/25/06
WAY TO GO PATTI! You pretty much know how much I love you and your products, but I want the rest of the world to know too. You are an awesome artist and vendor, but more importantly, you are one heckuva good friend. Great job and TRULY deserved.

By: Danie on 12/26/06
Congrats, Patti! Very well deserved ... way to go! :)

By: Megandoc on 12/29/06
Congratulaions, Patti! You're an inspiration to the rest of us! :)